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Dewing Grain, in conjunction with Muntons, the Stowmarket based malt and malted ingredient manufacturer has agreed a three year contract with participating grower members in a bid to guarantee supply of good quality winter malting barley with a known carbon footprint value.

Winter malting barley sowings have been in sharp decline over the last few years as feed varieties and spring barley gain favour; however there are real concerns over this worrying trend. Only 15% of barley bought nationally by maltsters is currently winter barley.

It is hoped that having longer term contracts in place will encourage farmers to grow this important crop and there are real benefits to be had for those that do. Part of the contract is a requirement to complete a carbon calculator, which not only helps the farmer identify ways of reducing their impact on the environment, but also helps Muntons to offer a clear carbon profile for their customers.

Melissa Abbott, Muntons Grain Value Chain Specialist, said: “Linking winter malting barley contracts to the completion of a carbon calculator is a real first, which will not only help the farmer but will have a positive effect on the environment and greatly assist in ensuring a sustainable future for this important crop.” She continued, “In addition, local sourcing means that food-miles are kept to a minimum – another benefit for the environment.”

Oliver Hitchcock from Dewing Grain, which is the main marketing arm of the members of Aylsham Grain and Yare Grain, commented: “Members will be able to clear the grain at harvest into their central stores and will receive added value that reflects a split pricing mechanism and also the carbon monitoring. We are pleased to be working with Muntons on this sustainable initiative, meeting the increasing needs of their customers.”